Thermally insulated components

ABSTRACT

A component of an electrical system, where the component comprises an electrical system component structure; and a thermal insulating structure for thermally insulating at least a portion of said electrical system component structure. The thermal insulating structure comprises a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a fiber structure. The fabric is impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure. The pliable binder structure is positioned on at least a portion of said electrical system component structure, and the pliable binder structure becomes a rigid binder structure in response to being dried, cured or otherwise hardened.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/779,681, filed Sep. 24, 2015, which is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 of PCT/US2014/031644, filed Mar. 25, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/805,796, filed Mar. 27, 2013, and to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/805,842, filed Mar. 27, 2013, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

The present invention relates to a thermal insulation, in particular to a thermal insulating structure, and more particularly to a thermal insulating structure that can be suitable for use on a component of an electrical system.

BACKGROUND

Thermal insulation comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, materials and configurations, and they are used for many applications to keep heat in or keep heat out of a system. Heat shields are one example known to be used in vehicles (e.g., automobiles) to insulate various parts of a vehicle exhaust system. However, heat shields are relatively expensive to make or purchase and expensive to install or replace when needed.

There is a continuing need for better and more cost effective ways to insulate systems (e.g. a vehicle exhaust system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention can be used in an effort to provide a relatively low cost way to insulate a portion or component of a system (e.g., an automobile or other vehicle exhaust systems) from other portions or components (e.g., the vehicle interior, motor mount, fuel line, break lines, etc.) or areas (e.g., vehicle passenger compartment) of the system, from areas adjacent the system (e.g., the ground underneath a vehicle), from personnel performing maintenance on or being located near the system, from users using the system (e.g., riders riding a motorcycle, ATV or other vehicle), or any combination thereof, including to insulate multiple systems from each other. The present invention may also be used to maintain heat within or keep heat out of the system allowing for the possibility of temperature related efficiencies (e.g., improved and/or lower emissions of combustion products of an internal combustion engine, maintaining desired temperatures within steam lines over longer distances, protecting wiring, circuitry, electronics, chemicals, food products, etc. that are sensitive to heat from fire or other forms of elevated temperatures, etc.).

In one aspect of the present invention, a component of an electrical system is provided, where the component comprises an electrical system component structure; and a thermal insulating structure for thermally insulating at least a portion of said electrical system component structure. The thermal insulating structure comprises a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a fiber structure. The fabric is impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure. The pliable binder structure is positioned on at least a portion of said electrical system component structure, and the pliable binder structure becomes a rigid binder structure in response to being dried, cured or otherwise hardened.

In another aspect of the present invention, a thermal insulating structure is provided for thermally insulating at least a portion of an electrical system component structure, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b). The thermal insulating structure comprises a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a fiber structure. The fabric is impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure that is dimensioned to be positioned on at least a portion of the electrical system component structure. The pliable binder structure is configured to become rigid in response to being dried, cured or otherwise hardened.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for making a thermal insulating structure used to insulate a portion or component of an electrical system (e.g., an electrical system component for an engine), where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b). The method comprises: forming a mixture comprising mixing water, inorganic binder particles and inorganic filler particles; providing a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a strip-, sheet- or mat-like structure that can be positioned on at least a portion of an electrical system component structure; impregnating the fabric with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure, wherein the fabric is impregnated with the mixture before or after being positioned on the electrical system component structure; placing the pliable binder structure on the component; and exposing the pliable binder structure to heat, wherein the fabric mixture is configured to release at least some water in response to exposure to heat such that the pliable binder structure becomes rigid after placement on the electrical system component.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for thermally insulating a component of an electrical system for an engine, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b). The component comprises an electrical system component structure and the method comprises providing a thermal insulating structure suitable for thermally insulating at least a portion of the electrical system component structure. The thermal insulating structure comprises: a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a strip-, sheet- or mat-like structure, with the fabric being impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure. The method also comprises drying the pliable binder structure, such that it transforms into a rigid binder structure positioned completely on at least the portion of the electrical system component structure; and positioning the pliable binder structure or rigid binder structure so as to be disposed on at least a portion of the electrical system component structure.

In addition to other potential advantages, the present invention may provide one or any combination of the following advantages: a relatively low-cost approach to insulating all or a portion of a system (e.g., an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine), especially relative to the cost of conventional heat shields; a thermal insulation that can be applied directly onto at least a portion of the exterior of a system structure (e.g., an exhaust system structure); a thermal insulation system for an internal combustion engine exhaust system that can reduce an outer surface temperature of an automobile exhaust system structure to below 500° C., below 400° C., below 300° C., below 200° C., or even below 100° C.; a relatively simple method of insulating an exhaust system structure of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine; elimination of heat shields and the associated heat shield rattle, heat shield tooling and heat shield attachment operations; cost effective way to replace the need for a thermally insulating double walled exhaust pipe or other such pipe; protects adjacent surroundings from excessive heat; keeps heat within selected portions of the system structure (e.g., an exhaust system structure); a non-metallic thermal insulation system with a relatively reduced likelihood of corrosion, as compared to conventional heat shield systems; sound attenuation and thermal insulation; useful in repairing defects or damage (e.g., holes in an exterior wall or housing) in system structures (e.g., an exhaust system structure); sufficiently reduce the exterior temperature of a desired portion of a system structure (e.g., an exhaust system structure) to eliminate, for example, burning exposed skin coming in contact with that portion of the system structure (e.g., a motorcycle exhaust pipe or other exhaust system structure); enhanced design freedom in configuring and locating the system structure; and sufficiently reduce the exterior temperature of an underneath portion of a system structure (e.g., an exhaust system structure) so as to prevent fires (e.g., grass or brush fires) caused by contact with the system structure (e.g., the exhaust systems of off-road construction equipment).

These and other aspects, features and/or advantages of the invention are further shown and described in the drawings and detailed description herein, where like reference numerals are used to represent similar parts. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings and description are for illustration purposes only and should not be read in a manner that would unduly limit the scope of this invention. For example, while specific embodiments of the present invention are described using a thermal insulating sleeve in combination with a system component, it is understood that other thermal insulating structures such as, for example, a thermal insulating wrap may also be suitable. An example of such a thermal insulating wrap structure can be found disclosed in published PCT Patent Application Number WO 2013/044012, which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

The terms “comprises” and variations thereof do not have a limiting meaning where these terms appear in the description and claims.

The words “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably. Thus, for example, the phrase “a thermal insulator” that can be used in the disclosed thermal insulating sleeves can be interpreted to mean “one or more” thermal insulators.

The term “and/or” means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements (e.g., preventing and/or treating an affliction means preventing, treating, or both treating and preventing further afflictions).

As used herein, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

Also herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The description that follows more particularly exemplifies illustrative embodiments. In several places throughout the application, guidance is provided through lists of examples, which examples can be used in various combinations. In each instance, the recited list serves only as a representative group and should not be interpreted as an exclusive list.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of a length of an exhaust pipe covered with one embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve, according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 2 taken along line 3-3;

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a length of an exhaust pipe covered with another embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve comprising a thermal insulator, according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6;

FIG. 7 is a side view of a length of an exhaust pipe covered with another embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve comprising separate thermal insulators, according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 7 taken along line 8-8;

FIG. 9 is a side view of a roll of a thermal insulating sleeve positioned within a container;

FIG. 10 is a side view of a catalytic converter with an open sensor port;

FIG. 11 is a side view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 10 covered with one embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve, according to the present invention, with un-insulated areas adjacent the sensor port;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 10 with a separate inorganic fibrous mat or patch disposed around the sensor port; and

FIG. 13 is a side view of the exhaust system structure of FIG. 12 covered with one embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve, according to the present invention, with the un-insulated areas of FIG. 11 being covered by the separate thermal insulator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

In describing preferred embodiments of the invention, specific terminology is used for the sake of clarity. The invention, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and each term so selected includes all technical equivalents that operate similarly.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

In the practice of the present invention, an inventive feature is provided that comprises a thermal insulating structure (e.g., in the form of one or more sleeves or wraps) for thermally insulating at least a portion of a structure of a system component (e.g., an exhaust system component). The system component forms at least part of a system. For example, an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine such as, for example, that used in an aircraft, watercraft, land vehicle (e.g., an automobile, train, etc.), power generator, etc. Other systems may include a steam system, an electrical system, a computer system, an electric power system, an air conditioning system, a hot water system, a food processing system (e.g., transportation of milk, syrup In some embodiments, the thermal insulating sleeve, wrap or other structure comprises (i) an aqueous mixture comprising an inorganic binder and inorganic filler particles; and (ii) a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a sleeve (e.g., a cylindrical or tubular fabric structure) or other desired structure (e.g., a sheet or strip). The fabric is impregnated with the aqueous mixture so as to form a pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) that is dimensioned to be positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed completely around at least a portion of the system structure (e.g., piping of an exhaust system structure). The pliable binder structure is intended to be dried, cured or otherwise hardened so as to be transformed into a rigid binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) that will remain in place so as to at least one of, or both, insulate and protect at least a portion of the system component.

In other embodiments, the thermal insulating sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) comprises (i) the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) in combination with (ii) at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, where the thermal insulator(s) is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) and an exterior of the system structure (e.g., a length of an exhaust pipe).

In other embodiments, the thermal insulating sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) comprises (i) the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) in combination with (ii) at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, wherein the thermal insulator(s) is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) and an exterior of a system structure (e.g., a length of an exhaust pipe), and (iii) an adhesive layer positioned between the thermal insulator(s) and the exterior of the system structure (e.g., an exhaust pipe) so as to enhance a bond between the thermal insulator(s) and the exterior of the system component.

FIG. 1 provides a cross sectional view of a length of an exhaust pipe covered with one embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve, according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a length of exhaust pipe 20 having an inner pipe surface 22 and an outer pipe surface 21 is at least partially covered with exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10 comprising pliable binder sleeve 11. As shown in FIG. 1, pliable binder sleeve 11 of thermal insulating sleeve 10 is capable of being positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed completely around at least a portion of the exhaust system structure (e.g., a length of exhaust pipe 20). Exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10 is shown as having a minimum number of two layer pliable binder sleeve 11 (i.e., two single layer sleeves or one dual layer sleeve). It is possible that a single layer pliable binder sleeve 11 would also be effective. However, it should be understood that any number of layers of fabric may be used to form a pliable binder sleeve 11. In addition, it may be possible for there to be no overwrapped region formed by the sleeve 11 (i.e., only a one layer sleeve 11 is used). The pliable binder sleeve 11 is intended to be dried, cured or hardened so as to be transformed into a rigid binder sleeve 11 that will remain in place so as to at least one of, or both, insulate and protect at least a portion of the exhaust system component (e.g., exhaust pipe 20).

FIG. 2 is a side view of the exhaust system component of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional view of exhaust pipe 20 and exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 3, an inner sleeve surface 13 of exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10 contacts outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20. Further, exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10 provides outer sleeve surface 12, which has a surface temperature substantially less than outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20 during operation of a vehicle comprising exhaust pipe 20.

Pliable binder sleeve 11 of thermal insulating sleeve 10 can be in any cylindrical or tubular form that adequately covers the exterior of an exhaust system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of a length of exhaust pipe 20). Pliable binder sleeve 11 or any other thermal insulating structure (e.g., a wrap in sheet form) can have a width that is comparable to that of the portion of the exterior of the exhaust system structure to be thermally insulated. That is, pliable binder sleeve 11 or any other thermal insulating structure can be wide enough that all, most or at least a substantial portion of the exterior surface area of the exhaust system structure, which is to be thermally insulated, can be covered with only one pliable binder sleeve 11 positioned around the exterior of the exhaust system structure. If the width of pliable binder sleeve 11 is not sufficiently wide, two or more of that pliable binder sleeve 11 may need to be used to adequately cover all of the portion of the exterior of the exhaust system structure to be thermally insulated.

Pliable binder sleeve 11 comprises an aqueous mixture comprising an inorganic binder and inorganic filler particles. The inorganic binder can comprise a mixture of water and inorganic binder particles, where the particles are either in suspension, have been dissolved, or some of the particles are in suspension and some have been dissolved. The inorganic binder is preferably a solution of inorganic colloidal particles (e.g., a colloidal solution of silica or alumina particles). The inorganic binder may also be a sodium silicate, potassium silicate, or lithium silicate solution, where the sodium silicate and the potassium silicate are mostly or completely dissolved. Sodium silicate and potassium silicate can be in powder form, which can be dissolved in water to form the solution, and they can be already dissolved in a water solution. It has been discovered that the shelf life and strength of the pliable binder sleeve can be improved by using a positively charged colloidal silica, sterically hindered colloidal silica, or de-ionized colloidal silica in the mixture, compared to some of the other more common negatively charged sodium or ammonium stabilized pliable binder sleeve material choices.

It is desirable for the inorganic filler particles to be particles of a clay such as, for example only, kaolin clay, bentonite clay, montmorillonite clay, or any combination thereof. The clay filler particles may also be in the form of a calcined clay, delaminated clay, water washed clay, surface treated clay, or any combination thereof. The inorganic filler particles may also be, alternatively or additionally, particles of elemental metal, metal alloy, precipitated silica, fume silica, ground silica, fumed alumina, alumina powder, talc, calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, titanium dioxide, glass bubbles, silicon carbide, glass frit, calcium silicate, or any combination thereof. The inorganic filler particles may be any other fine particulate that completely, mostly or at least substantially retains the inorganic binder in the fabric without forming the mixture into a gel or otherwise coagulating, when mixed with the inorganic binder (especially inorganic colloidal binder particles) in the presence of water, such that the insulating structure (e.g., sleeve or wrap) becomes a solid mass that cannot be opened so as to cover (e.g., slipped over for a sleeve, or wound for a wrap), or is at least very difficult to open so as to cover, the exterior of the exhaust system structure. It can be desirable for the inorganic filler particles to have a size distribution in the range of from about 2 microns, and in increments of 1 micron, up to about 100 microns, 90 microns, 80 microns, 70 microns, 60 microns or 50 microns. For some embodiments of the present invention, it may also be desirable to use filler particles having a size distribution in the range of from about 0.2 microns, and in increments of 0.1 microns, up to about 2 microns.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the aqueous mixture to further comprise dyes, pigment particles, IR reflecting pigment particles, biocides, thickening agents, pH modifiers, PH buffers etc.

The fabric for forming a pliable binder structure (e.g., pliable binder sleeve 11) comprises a fabric comprising inorganic fibers (e.g., continuous glass fibers, heat treated glass fibers, silica fibers, preshrunk silica fibers, basalt fibers, polycrystalline fibers, heat treated refractory ceramic fibers or any combination thereof,) suitable for being one or any combination of non-woven, woven, and/or knitted into a fabric. As used herein, a fabric refers to a non-woven fabric, woven fabric, knitted fabric or a combination of these types of fabric. Only non-woven fabrics with sufficient structural integrity are useful in the present invention. For example, it is important that a fabric according to the present invention exhibit sufficient strength (e.g., tensile strength) to survive being positioned around the applicable system structure without tearing apart. A fabric according to the present invention can be made from the same or different types of fibers. As discussed herein, the fabric of the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) is saturated, soaked, dipped, coated, sprayed or otherwise impregnated throughout all, most or at least substantial portion of its wall thickness with the aqueous mixture so as to form a wet and pliable binder structure (e.g., pliable binder sleeve 11). The fabric sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can be impregnated with the aqueous mixture before or after being applied to the exterior of the system structure. The pliable binder structure (e.g., a sleeve, wrap or structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can then be dried, cured or otherwise hardened so as to form a rigid binder structure (e.g., a sleeve, wrap or structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) of a resulting thermal insulating structure (e.g., thermal insulating sleeve 10). As used herein, the terms “dried”, “cured” and “hardened” each refers to the pliable binder sleeve being heated to a temperature that is hot enough and for a time that is long enough to cause the pliable binder sleeve (i.e., the aqueous mixture) to harden and become a rigid binder sleeve (i.e., a rigid mixture). Such hardening of the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may be accomplished without the use of an external source of heat. The length of time it would take to dry, cure or otherwise harden the aqueous mixture at room temperature can be determined by simple trial and error experimentation. Using a fan or applying heat to accelerate water evaporation from the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can likewise accelerate the drying, curing or hardening process.

The aqueous mixture used to impregnate the fabric of a thermal insulating structure of the present invention (e.g., exemplary thermal insulating sleeve 10) can be a slurry comprising water, an inorganic binder and inorganic filler particles. Although the weight percent of each component within the slurry may vary, a given slurry can comprise from about 20.0 to about 54.0 percent by weight (pbw) of water, from about 1.0 to about 36.0 pbw of one or more inorganic binders, and from about 10.0 to about 70.0 pbw of inorganic filler particles, based on a total weight of the slurry. It can also be desirable for a given slurry to comprise from about 22.0 to about 45.0 pbw of water, from about 5.0 to about 30.0 pbw of one or more inorganic binders, and from about 20.0 to about 55.0 pbw of inorganic filler particles, based on a total weight of the slurry.

Although the particle size of the inorganic binder material is not limited, it can be desirable for the inorganic binder to comprise inorganic binder particles having a maximum particle size of about 200 nm, preferably a maximum particle size of about 100 nm. It can also be desirable for the inorganic binder to comprise inorganic binder particles having a particle size ranging from about 1.0 to about 100 nm. It can further be desirable for the inorganic binder to comprise inorganic binder particles having a particle size ranging from about 4.0 to about 60 nm.

Further, although the particle size of the inorganic filler particles is not limited, it can be desirable for the inorganic filler particles to have a maximum particle size of about 100 microns (μm). It can be desirable for the inorganic filler particles to have a particle size ranging from about 0.1 μm, and in increments of 0.1 μm, up to about 100 μm. It can also be desirable for the inorganic filler particles to have a particle size ranging from about 0.2 μm, and in increments of 0.1 μm, up to about 50 μm.

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a length of an exhaust system structure covered with another embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve comprising a thermal insulator according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, a single exemplary thermal insulator 30 is disposed between thermal insulating sleeve 10 and exterior surface 21 of the exhaust system structure, namely, exhaust pipe 20.

FIG. 5 provides a side view of the exhaust system component of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional view of the exhaust system component of FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 6, an inner insulator surface 32 of thermal insulator 30 contacts outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20, while inner sleeve surface 13 of pliable binder sleeve 11 contacts outer insulator surface 31 of thermal insulator 30. Further, thermal insulating sleeve 10 provides outer sleeve surface 12, which has a surface temperature substantially less than outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20 during operation of a vehicle comprising exhaust pipe 20.

Although exemplary thermal insulator 30 is shown as a single thermal insulator in FIG. 6, it should be understood that one or more thermal insulators 30 may be positioned between outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20 and inner sleeve surface 13 of exemplary pliable binder sleeve 11 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 8 provides a cross sectional view of an exhaust system structure covered with another embodiment of a thermal insulating sleeve comprising two separate thermal insulators according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, separate thermal insulators 30 are positioned on opposite sides of exterior surface 21 of an exemplary exhaust system structure (i.e., a length of exhaust pipe 20). In this embodiment, pliable binder sleeve 11 of thermal insulating sleeve 10 comes into contact with each thermal insulator 30 as well as exterior surface 21 of pipe 20.

In embodiments using a plurality of separate thermal insulators positioned between the pliable binder structure (e.g., exemplary pliable binder sleeve 11) and the exterior surface of the e system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20), the thermal insulators may be (i) spaced apart and separated from one another so as to form gaps between adjacent thermal insulators (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8), (ii) positioned adjacent to one another so that there are no gaps between adjacent thermal insulators, and/or (iii) positioned so as to partially or completely overlap one another so as to form multiple layers of thermal insulators between the pliable binder structure (e.g., exemplary pliable binder sleeve 11) and the exterior surface of the system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20). In other potential embodiments, more than two thermal insulators (e.g., insulators 30) can be used that are positioned at various locations on the exterior surface (e.g., surface 21) of the particular system structure, with or without the pliable binder structure (e.g., sleeve 11) coming in contact with each thermal insulator (e.g., insulator 30) and the exterior surface (e.g., surface 21) of the system structure.

When one or more thermal insulators are used in a given thermal insulating structure (e.g., thermal insulating sleeve 10), the thermal insulating structure comprises at least one or a plurality of thermal insulators comprising inorganic fibers. The insulator(s) may be dimensioned so as to insulate all or any desired portion of the exterior of the particular system structure (e.g., exterior surface 21 of pipe 20). The thermal insulator also, or alternatively, can function to reduce the likelihood of the rigid fabric structure (i.e., dried pliable binder sleeve 11) cracking or fracturing due to thermal expansion of the system component. That is, the insulator can absorb the expansion of the system component.

As shown in FIG. 8, thermal insulators can be generally co-planar with one another, and multiple thermal insulators can be positioned at different locations on the exterior of the system structure (e.g., exterior surface 21 of pipe 20).

The insulator can be dimensioned so as to be disposed over all, most, or a desired portion of the area of the exterior surface of the system structure (e.g., exterior surface 21 of pipe 20). Preferably, the pliable binder structure, in whatever form, is positioned (e.g., slipped or wrapped) over or otherwise disposed so that no portion of the thermal insulator(s) is exposed.

FIG. 7 provides a side view of the exhaust system component of FIG. 8. It can be desirable for the pliable binder structure, with or without one or more thermal insulators 30, to form at least 2, 3, 4 or even more layers of the impregnated fabric around the system structure (e.g., exterior surface 21 of pipe 20). The pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may have only two layers around some or most, but not all, of the system structure. In one possible embodiment, the pliable binder structure may be in the form of two or more sleeves, wraps or other structures (i.e., structures that are not sleeves or wraps). For example, one sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can be wide enough to cover the desired portion of the system structure and one or more remaining narrower sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can be positioned so as to secure (e.g., either end of) the wider sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) in place around the exhaust system structure. In addition, different structures can be used at the same time. For example, a sleeve structure can be used first, followed by a wrap that is wrapped around the sleeve covered portion of the system structure. Multiple layers of such different fabric or binder structures can also be used. It is desirable for there to be enough overlapping of the sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) layers to provide the structural integrity desired for the overall insulating structure.

Insulators suitable for use in the present invention can be in the form of a woven or nonwoven fibrous web, mat, scrim or strip. The insulator can include one or more layers and comprise any suitable commercially available ceramic fiber insulation. Without intending to be so limited, such insulators may comprise, for example, glass fibers, silica fibers, basalt fibers, refractory ceramic fibers, heat treated refractory ceramic fibers, polycrystalline fibers, high temperature biosoluble inorganic fibers, carbon fibers, or graphite fibers, or aerogel based insulators, etc., or any combination thereof, as desired. Intumescent materials (e.g., vermiculite, graphite, etc.) may also be included to provide compression, if needed to prevent movement.

The thermal insulator may comprise intumescent materials and non-intumescent materials. The thermal insulator may be intumescent or non-intumescent. The thermal insulator may also comprise or be used with materials suitable for functioning as a fire stop. For example, a relatively thinner single or multiple layer fire stop material could form a laminate with a relatively thicker single or multiple layer non-intumescent thermal insulator, where the thermal insulator is sufficiently compliant and thick enough to accommodate heat induced expansion of the fire stop material (e.g., an intumescent material) with heat. With this embodiment, the thermal insulator would be compliant (i.e., compressible) enough to allow for the expansion of the fire stop material. In such a compressed state, the insulating properties of the thermal insulator would likely be as good as they would be when the thermal insulator is in its uncompressed condition.

It is the temperature that the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) is exposed to, rather than the temperature of the system component structure, that will determine the choice of materials used for the pliable binder structure (e.g., the fabric, inorganic binders and inorganic filler particles). For example, if the system component structure (e.g., an exhaust system component structure) exhibited an exterior surface temperature of 1000° C., the materials used for the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may not need to survive such an elevated temperature, if a thermal insulator is used that effectively insulates the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) materials from the elevated temperature of the system component structure. In fact, by employing one or more such thermal insulators, it may be possible to use organic materials (e.g., any combination of organic fibers, an organic fiber fabric, organic binder, and organic filler particles) to make part or all of the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap). It may also be desirable to use such organic materials to make part of the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap), even without using such a thermal insulator. By comprising an appropriate fibrous material, the thermal insulator may also exhibit acoustical properties or achieve other acoustical benefits.

In other embodiments of the present invention, an optional adhesive layer (not shown) may be used to enhance the bond between (i) a given pliable binder structure (e.g., exemplary pliable binder sleeve 11) and/or a given thermal insulator (e.g., exemplary thermal insulator 30) and (ii) an exterior surface of the system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20).

High-temperature adhesive may comprise a heat-resistant, dryable adhesive comprising a mixture of colloidal silica and clay, or a mixture of sodium or potassium silicate and clay. The adhesive may also contain delaminated vermiculite, fumed silica, fumed alumina, titanium dioxide, talc, or other finely ground metal oxide powders. The adhesive may further comprise one or more organic binders. Suitable organic binders include, but are not limited to, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), acrylic, urethane, silicone elastomers and/or silicone resins. One or more organic binders may be added to improve green strength or enhance water resistance of the adhesive. The dryable adhesive may also contain any one or a combination of IR reflective pigments, glass or ceramic bubbles, micro-porous materials such as aerogels, or anticorrosive agents (e.g., sacrificial aluminum, zinc or other highly reactive metals).

High-temperature adhesive may be applied directly onto the exterior surface of the system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20) or a thermal insulator (e.g., exemplary thermal insulator 30), which is subsequently applied over the system structure (e.g., outer pipe surface 21 of exhaust pipe 20).

The present invention is further directed to kits comprising one or more of the elements mentioned herein. In some embodiments, for example, the kit comprises one or more of the following elements: (i) one or more pliable binder structures (e.g., one or more pliable binder sleeves 11), desirably, folded or wound into the form of a roll and stored within a moisture barrier container; (ii) one or more thermal insulators; (iii) one or more units/sheets of adhesive either separate from or attached to an outer surface of element (i) and/or element (ii); and (iv) a cutting device (e.g., a razor or scissors). It can be desirable for the moisture barrier container to have re-sealable features, especially when it contains more than one pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap). In an alternative kit embodiment, the mixture and the fabric used in making the pliable binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) are kept separated and combined later (e.g., before or after the fabric is applied to the component structure).

FIG. 9 provides a side view of a possible kit component, namely, a roll 15 of pliable binder sleeve 11 positioned within a container 50 (e.g., a moisture barrier plastic bag), wherein roll 15 is readily unwound. Desirably, container 50 prevents moisture from entering or leaving an inner storage compartment of container 50 ((e.g., a metalized plastic foil bag for increased shelf life) so that roll 15 of pliable binder sleeve 11 remains pliable (i.e., does not dry out) prior to use. Further, container 50 is desirably resealable so that any unused portion of roll 15 of pliable binder sleeve 11 can be restored after a given application.

Other exemplary exhaust system components that can benefit from the present invention can include, for example, pollution control devices (e.g., diesel particulate filters or traps, catalytic converters, etc.), mufflers, headers, expansion chambers, and resonators. Referring to FIG. 10, a conventional catalytic converter 60 is shown with a main housing 61 that is connected at either end to an exhaust pipe 20 by a cone-shaped housing or end-cone 62 and can be covered as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5. It may be more difficult to fully sleeve some exhaust system components that include, e.g., an additional structural feature (e.g., a port, bracket, flange, etc.) that extends outwardly from or otherwise off of its exterior surface. An example of such an exhaust system component is the catalytic converter 60 with an oxygen sensor port 64 (shown without its sensor in place). When the catalytic converter 60 is covered with only a pliable binder sleeve 63, according to the present invention, it may be difficult to insure that the exterior surface of the catalytic converter 60, intended to be insulated, will be completely covered with the sleeve 63. As shown in FIG. 11, for example, an areas 66 of the sleeve 63 may need to be opened to accommodate the sensor port 64, which can result in corresponding areas of the exterior surface of the catalytic converter 60, on opposite sides of the sensor port 64, to be exposed and, therefore, un-insulated.

To address this problem, a separate piece of an inorganic fibrous mat or other structure 68 can be disposed around the port 64, for example, by forming an opening (e.g., a slit or hole) through the mat 68 that is configured to receive the port 64 therethrough. In this way, the mat 68 can be positioned around the port 64 and against the exterior surface of the catalytic converter main housing 61, e.g., in the manner shown in FIG. 12. Although exemplary mat 68 is shown as a single piece in FIG. 12, it should be understood that one or more such mats 68 may be positioned between the catalytic converter housing 61 and the exemplary pliable binder sleeve 63. Each mat 68 can be a piece of almost any fibrous sheet- or mat-like structure. For example, each mat 68 can be a piece of fabric like that used to make a pliable binder sleeve 63 or a piece of a nonwoven fibrous web, mat, scrim or strip like that used to make a thermal insulator 30. After the mat 68 is in place, the catalytic converter 60 can be covered with the pliable binder sleeve 63. This time, as shown in FIG. 13, if open areas 66 of the sleeve 63 are formed, the corresponding areas of the exterior surface of the catalytic converter 60 will still be covered, and therefore insulated, by the mat 68 (Compare FIGS. 11 and 13).

It is desirable for the fibrous mat 68 to be impregnated with an aqueous mixture, like that used to make the pliable binder sleeve 63, so as to form a pliable binder mat 68 with properties, when dried, that are similar or identical to the pliable binder sleeve 63, when it is dried (i.e., the rigid binder sleeve 63). Thus, when the pliable binder mat 68 is in a dried state, it transforms into a rigid binder mat 68, and the exposed portions of the rigid binder mat 68 (e.g., in open areas 66) will exhibit properties at least similar to, or identical to, those of the rigid binder sleeve 63. As used herein, the terms “dried”, “cured” and “hardened” can refer to the pliable binder structure being heated to a temperature that is hot enough and for a time that is long enough to cause the pliable binder structure (i.e., the aqueous mixture) to harden and become a rigid binder structure (i.e., a rigid mixture).

The following Examples have been selected merely to further illustrate features, advantages, and other details of the invention. It is to be expressly understood, however, that while the Examples serve this purpose, the particular ingredients and amounts used as well as other conditions and details are not to be construed in a manner that would unduly limit the scope of this invention.

Test Methods Crush Strength Test

The following is a description of the process used to test the crush strength of a rigid binder sleeve, wrap or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap), according to the present invention, where each sample is formed using a pliable binder wrap.

All samples were produced using four foot lengths of two inch wide fiberglass knit tape, like that described in the Example of U.S. Pat. No. 4,609,578, which patent is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The sample pliable binder wraps were made by dipping the fabric tape into each specified slurry mixture followed by hand massaging the slurry into the fabric to evenly saturate the slurry into the fabric.

At room temperature, each sample of the four foot length two inch wide pliable binder wrap was wrapped around a 2″ diameter cylindrical aluminum mandrel (i.e., with a 2 mil polyester film wrapped around the mandrel to make removal easier) using one kg of winding force to form hollow cylinders two inches long with a two inch inside diameter, an average outside diameter of from about 2.2 to 2.4 inch, and an average wall thickness of about 0.1 to 0.2 inch. Each sample of the resulting pliable hollow cylinders or sleeves were dried at 90° C. for at least one hour while still on the mandrel. After being dried, each of the resulting hard cylinders was removed from the mandrel. Some of the hard cylinders were cooled then placed in a MTS force measurement device to evaluate their individual crush strength. The force measurement device compresses the cylinder at a rate of one inch per minute while recording resultant force. The peak force is recorded. Each sample was positioned in the force measurement device with the opening of the test cylinder lying horizontal. Other samples of the hard cylinders subjected to additional conditioning being tested for crush strength. In particular, some of the hard cylinder samples were heated to 500° C. for 18 hours, allowed to cool to room temperature, and then tested for crush strength. Other hard cylinder samples were heated to 500° C. for 18 hours, allowed to cool to room temperature, soaked in water for 18 hrs, and then tested for crush strength.

EXAMPLES

The following materials as shown in Table 1 were used in the examples below:

TABLE 1 Materials Description Source Fabrics ECG heat set knit 2″ 3″ or 4″ wide 3M, St. Paul MN SCOTCHCAST ™ knit heat treated G yarn ECG non-heat set knit 3″ wide SCOTCHCAST ™ 3M, St. Paul MN knit not heat treated G yarn ECDE heat set knit 4″ wide SCOTCHCAST ™ 3M, St. Paul MN knit heat treated DE yarn silica weave TECSIL ® 3″ 13-621 Intec, Anaheim CA e-glass weave #8817K68 McMaster-Carr, Chicago IL Inorganic Binder colloidal silica 4 nm NALCO ™ 1115 Nalco, Chicago IL colloidal silica 15 nm NALCO ™ 1144 Nalco, Chicago IL colloidal silica 20 nm NALCO ™ 2327 Nalco, Chicago IL colloidal silica 60 nm NALCO ™ 1060 Nalco, Chicago IL colloidal alumina 50 nm NYACOL ®AL20 Nyacol, Ashland MA colloidal silica 8 nm LUDOX ® SM Grace Davidson Columbia MD Colloidal silica positively Ludox CL-P Grace Davidson Columbia MD charged Colloidal silica deionized Ludox TMA Grace Davidson Columbia MD Colloidal silica 20 nm NALCO 1056 Nalco, Chicago, IL positive charge Colloidal silica Bindzil cc401 AkzoNobel, Marietta, GA sterically stabilized Colloidal silica positive Bindzil CAT80 AkzoNobel, Marietta, GA charge wide particle size range Colloidal silica neutral Bindzil DP5100 AkzoNobel, Marietta, GA pH sodium silicate STIXO ™ NN PQ Corporation, Valley Forge PA Inorganic Fillers and Additives kaolin clay POLYPLATE ™ P KaMin, Macon GA calcined kaolin 2000C KaMin, Macon GA bentonite clay BENTOLITE ® Southern Clay Gonzales TX aluminum hydroxide 1 Huber ONYX ELITE ® Huber, Norcross GA aluminum hydroxide 2 MARTINAL ® OL-104 LE Albemarle, Baton Rouge LA fumed silica CAB-O-SIL ® M-5 Cabot, Boston MA fumed alumina SpectrAl ® grade 51 Cabot, Boston MA alumina powder Type A Fisher Scientific, Fairlawn NJ precipitated silica ZEOTHIX ® 265 Huber, Norcross, GA ground silica 1 MIN-U-SIL ™ 10 U.S. Silica, Frederick MD ground silica 2 MIN-U-SIL ™ 30 U.S. Silica, Frederick MD aluminum powder 325 mesh #11067 Alfa/Aesar, Ward Hill MA Talc talc powder J.T. Baker, Phillipsburg NJ aluminum silicate #14231 Alfa/Aesar, Ward Hill MA calcium silicate MICRO-CEL ® Celiter Corp., Lompoc CA calcium carbonate Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis MO silicon carbide 800W Electro Abrasives, Buffalo NY glass bubbles SCOTCHLITE ™ K37 3M, St. Paul MN glass frit EG02934VEG Ferro, Cleveland OH titanium dioxide R900 Dupont, Wilmington DE sodium hydroxide Pellets EMD, Germany nitric acid 69% Nitric acid J.T. Baker, Phillipsburg NJ Kaolin clay Dixie clay R.T. Vanderbuilt, Norwalk, CT Wollastonite Vansil 50 R.T. Vanderbuilt, Norwalk, CT Manganese Ferrite FM-2400 Rockwood, Beltsville, MD Silane Z-6040 Dow-Corning, Midland MI

Example 1

Embodiments of the invention were produced by the method generally described herein.

Slurries were prepared using ingredients shown above. In each slurry, inorganic materials were added to liquid component(s) using a high shear mixer and blended until smooth to form a given slurry as shown in Table 2 below.

TABLE 2 Slurries Slurry Composition 1 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 2 67 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 33 wt % calcium carbonate 3 57.1 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 42.9 wt % calcium carbonate 4 94.4 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 5.6 wt % M-5 fumed silica 5 87.8 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 12.2 wt % M-5 fumed silica 6 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % talc 7 52.9 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 47.1 wt % talc 8 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % silicon carbide 9 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % aluminum powder, 10 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 10 82.3 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 17.7 wt % bentonite clay 11 84 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 16 wt % fumed alumina 12 84.4 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 15.6 wt % glass bubbles 13 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50 wt % titanium dioxide 14 66.7 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 33.3 wt % alumina powder 15 84.2 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 15.8 wt % precipitated silica 16 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50 wt % aluminum silicate 17 42.1 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 57.9 wt % aluminum hydroxide-1 18 42.1 wt % 2326 colloidal silica, 57.9 wt % ground silica 1 19 42.1 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 57.9 wt % ground silica 2 20 45.3 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50.0 wt % silica 1, 2.8 wt % silicon carbide, 1.8 wt % bentonite clay 21 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 22 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % 2000C calcined clay 23 44.5 wt % colloidal silica 1144, 33.3 wt % glass frit, 22.2 wt % 2000C 24 60 wt % SM colloidal silica, 40 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 25 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 26 50 wt % 4 nm colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 27 50 wt % 60 nm colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 28 50 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 29 60 wt % colloidal alumina, 40 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 30 100 wt % 2327 colloidal silica 31 100 wt % 4 nm colloidal silica 32 90 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 10 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 33 80 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 20 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 34 70 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 30 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 35 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica 40 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 36 100 wt % sodium silicate solution 37 80 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 20 wt % 2000C 38 70 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 30 wt % 2000C 39 60 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 40 wt % 2000C 40 74.4 wt % sodium silicate, 18.6 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 7 wt % water 41 12.5 wt % sodium silicate, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 37.5 wt % water 42 28.6 wt % sodium silicate, 42.8 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 28.6 wt % water 43 45 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 50 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 5 wt % titanium dioxide 44 40 wt % sodium silicate, 30 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 30 wt % water 45 29.4 wt % sodium silicate, 35.3 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 35.3 wt % water 46 14.3 wt % sodium silicate, 42.8 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 42.8 wt % water 47 60 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 40 wt % water 48 69.5 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 30.5 wt % water 49 15 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 55 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 30 wt % water 50 31 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 49 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 20 wt % water 51 7.7 wt % sodium silicate, 46.2 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 46.2 wt % water 52 10 wt % sodium silicate, 90 wt % water 53 25 wt % sodium silicate, 75 wt % water 54 50 wt % sodium silicate, 50 wt % water 55 90.2 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 9.8 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P 56 50 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 33 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 17 wt % 2000C 57 55 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 30 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 15 wt % 2000C 58 52.4 wt % 2327 colloidal silica, 31.7 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 15.8 wt % 2000C 59 7.9 wt % 4 nm colloidal silica, 68.3 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P, 23.7 wt % water 60 50 wt % 2327, 50 wt % aluminum hydroxide -2 61 44.5 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 33.3 wt % glass frit, 22.2 wt % 2000C clay 62 53.3 wt % nitric acid treated 1144 colloidal silica*, 46.7 wt % POLYPLATE ™ P *Nitric acid added with stirring to 1144 colloidal silica until pH 2.3 is achieved. 63 83.7 wt % 1144 colloidal silica, 16.3 wt % calcium silicate 64 50% 1056 colloidal silica, 18% 2000C clay, 32% POLYPLATE ™ P 65 50% 1056 colloidal silica, 50% Dixie clay 66 50% 1144 colloidal silica, 50% Vansil 50 67 53% Cat 80 colloidal silica, 47% POLYPLATE P 68 50% cc401 colloidal silica, 45% POLYPLATE P, 5% FM2400 69 50% DP5110 colloidal silica, 45% POLYPLATE P, 5% FM2400 70 50% 1056 colloidal silica, 45% POLYPLATE P, 5% FM2400 71 53% cat 80 colloidal silica 42% Dixie clay, 5% FM2400 72 54% Ludox CL-P colloidal silica, 46% POLYPLATE P 73 50% Ludox TMA colloidal silica, 50% POLYPLATE P 74 25% 1056 colloidal silica, 25% Cat 80 colloidal silica. 25% Polyplate P, 25% Dixie clay 75 25% 1056 colloidal silica, 25% Cat 80 colloidal silica. 25% POLYPLATE P, 25% Dixie clay + 0.33% Z-6040 silane

Each knitted fiberglass fabric tape was impregnated with a given slurry to produce a given pliable thermal insulating sleeve sample, and subsequently dried via a drying/heat treatment procedure as shown in Table 3 below. In each test sample, a given slurry was coated onto ECG heat-set 2″ wide knit with a weight of 20 grams (g) and a length of 4 feet.

Each sample was subsequently tested for crush strength as described above. Results are shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition* strength N 1 60 74.9 58.4  90 157 2 60 60.9 48.6 500 93 3 2 82.0 57.1  90 69 4 2 89.1 61.3 500 116 5 3 110.2 79.3  90 174 6 3 112.5 80.8 500 242 7 3 108.5 78.2 500 wet 119 8 4 69.1 41.3  90 29 9 4 67.5 40.6 500 41 10 5 70.7 44  90 43.6 11 5 72.8 45 500 78 12 5 68.2 42.8 500 wet 58 13 6 73.4 54.2  90 85 14 6 66.6 49.8 500 52 15 6 68.4 51 500 wet 75 16 7 82.3 62.5  90 174 17 7 84.9 64.3 500 266 18 7 80.5 61.3 500 wet 199 19 8 79.4 58  90 60 20 8 77.8 57 500 116 21 8 83.9 60.9 500 wet 83 22 9 87.1 67  90 202 23 9 82.9 64 500 266 24 9 82.9 64 500 wet 233 25 10 67.6 44.1  90 52 26 10 65 42.8 500 100 27 11 66.8 43.2  90 25 28 11 65.6 42.6 500 38 29 12 67.6 43.5  90 42 30 12 67.6 43.5 500 43 31 12 66.6 43 500 wet 40 32 13 60.4 48.3  90 46 33 13 63.9 50.7 500 63 34 13 63.4 50.4 500 wet 66 35 14 84.1 58.4  90 205 36 14 83.2 57.9 500 164 37 14 84.7 58.8 500 wet 135 38 15 74.2 46.8  90 32 39 15 74.2 46.8 500 63 40 15 71.3 45.4 500 wet 46 41 16 67.7 53.4  90 98 42 16 69.4 54.6 500 209 43 16 67.7 53.4 500 wet 169 44 17 100 79.8  90 270 45 17 86.9 70 500 130 46 17 78.9 64 500 wet 117 47 18 96.7 77.3  90 257 48 18 93.6 75 500 297 49 18 97.3 77.8 500 wet 237 50 19 128.8 101.3  90 409 51 19 110.3 87.5 500 300 52 19 121.3 95.7 500 wet 335 53 20 93.6 73.4  90 307 54 20 90.7 71.3 500 417 55 20 90.7 71.3 500 wet 270 56 21 73.1 54  90 149 57 21 67.9 50.75 500 229 58 21 69.2 51.5 500 wet 178 59 22 74.7 55  90 187 60 22 76.7 56.3 500 216 61 22 75.9 55.8 500 wet 173 62 55 50.5 34  90 41 63 55 47.7 32.7 500 44 64 55 46.2 32 500 wet 37 65 56 88 67.6  90 153 66 56 70.3 55.2 500 219 67 56 75.3 58.7 500 wet 213 68 57 69.4 53.1  90 110 69 57 66.3 51 500 198 70 57 69.1 52.9 500 wet 165 71 58 75.6 58.1  90 124 72 58 78.2 59.9 500 271 73 58 77.8 59.6 500 wet 223 74 59 80.2 61.8  90 70 75 59 74.7 58 500 153 76 59 75 58.2 500 wet 129 77 43 65.6 53.3  90 93 78 43 57.4 47.3 500 140 79 43 63.6 51.8 500 wet 147 80 49 65.2 47.6  90 45 81 49 60.8 44.9 500 93 82 50 65 47.6  90 64 83 50 60.6 44.9 500 125 84 61 101.3 79.6  90 295 85 61 101.6 79.8 500 340 86 61 99.7 78.4 500 wet 329 87 63 84.1 53.9  90 175 88 63 85.1 54.9 500 200 89 63 81.4 53.6 500 wet 206 90 65 83.1 61  90 180 91 65 75.4 56 500 391 92 65 75.4 56 500 wet 344 93 66 88 68  90 425 94 66 90 69 500 519 95 66 88 68 500 wet 424 Condition* “90” means the sample was dried at 90° C. for two hours, cooled to room temperature, and then crushed. “500” means the sample was dried at 90° C. for two hours, then heated to 500° C. for 18 hours, cooled to room temperature, and then crushed. “500 wet” means the sample was dried at 90° C. for two hours, then heated to 500° C. for 18 hours, cooled to room temperature, then place in a water bath at room temperature for 18 hours, removed from water, and then crushed.

Example 2

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1. The following test samples utilized various colloidal binders. Results are shown in Table 4.

TABLE 4 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition strength N 100 25 74.3 58  90 161 101 25 71.6 56.1 500 307 102 25 69.4 54.6 500 wet 225 103 26 65 45.9  90 87 104 26 59.5 42.7 500 184 105 26 60.3 32.2 500 wet 154 106 27 65.6 54.2  90 136 107 27 60.8 50.6 500 270 108 27 61.7 51.3 500 Wet 212 109 28 75.6 58.9  90 217 110 28 74.3 58 500 420 111 28 71.6 56.1 500 wet 360 112 29 83.1 52.8  90 68 113 29 71.9 47 500 136 114 29 72.5 47.3 500 wet 91 115 24 71.7 50  90 173 116 24 69.1 48.5 500 260 117 24 70 49 500 wet 247 118 30 49 31.6  90 11 119 30 49.3 31.7 500 18 120 30 53 33.2 500 wet 18 121 31 53.3 30  90 13.5 122 62 87.7 66.4  90 96 123 62 80.5 61.8 500 187 124 62 80.8 62.3 500 wet 141 125 64 78.5 58  90 211 126 64 70.8 53 500 378 127 64 67.7 51 500 wet 331 128 67 78 60  90 198 129 67 72 56 500 468 130 67 73 57 500 wet 428 131 68 73 56  90 122 132 68 67 52 500 227 133 68 68 53 500 wet 177 134 69 75 56  90 112 135 69 65 49 500 211 136 69 66 50 500 wet 137 137 70 72 54  90 253 138 70 69 53 500 361 139 70 71 53 500 wet 370 140 71 76 59  90 265 141 71 71 55 500 495 142 71 68 53 500 wet 410 143 72 81 61  90 161 144 72 75 57 500 450 145 72 73 56 500 wet 377 146 73 71 54  90 91 147 73 72 55 500 202 148 73 64 49 500 wet 163 149 74 73 56  90 195 150 74 69 53 500 502 151 74 68 52 500 wet 378 152 75 69 54 500 489 153 75 66 51 500 460

Example 3

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1. The following test samples utilized sodium silicate binders. Results are shown in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition strength N 200 36 80.2 43.6 90 208 201 40 93.9 55.3 90 313 202 41 81.9 54 90 202 203 41 83.7 54 500  242 204 41 85.6 56 500 wet 240 205 42 70.36 47.2 90 383 206 42 69.8 46.9 500  131 207 42 67.77 45.8 500wet 150 208 44 54.8 35.9 90 257 209 44 61.4 38.9 500  90 210 44 63.1 39.7 500 wet 80 211 45 66.3 41.7 90 275 212 45 59.9 38.7 500  132 213 45 60.4 38.9 500 wet 94 214 46 68.1 43.9 90 145 215 46 60.3 39.5 500  175 216 46 59.7 39.2 500 wet 153 217 51 71.8 45.5 90 83 218 51 59.6 39.5 500  129 219 52 45.5 21 90 3 220 52 45.5 21 500  2 221 52 45.5 21 500 wet 2 222 53 47.6 22.7 90 13 223 53 44.5 22.4 500  12 224 53 45.51 22.5 500 wet 7 225 54 48.6 25.6 90 26 226 54 47 25.3 500  26 227 54 46.5 25.2 500 wet 26

Example 6

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1. The following test samples show crush strength as filler weight percent varies in a given test sample. Results are shown in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition strength N 300 32 58.5 37.7 90 37 301 33 55 38.2 90 46 302 34 66 46.7 90 99 303 35 79.5 58.1 90 166 304 1 69.6 54.7 90 193 305 37 67.3 44.6 90 105 306 38 71.4 49.8 90 109 307 39 94.5 67.7 90 229

Example 7

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1. The following test samples show crush strength as slurry coating weight varies in a given test sample. Results are shown in Table 7.

TABLE 7 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition* strength N 400 1 45.4 37.8 150 44 401 1 47.7 39.4 150 60 402 1 53.8 43.6 150 77 403 1 57.2 46 150 91 404 1 60.1 48 150 101 405 1 65.2 51.7 150 120 406 1 69.1 54.4 150 125 407 1 72 56.4 150 138 408 1 76.8 59.8 150 158 409 28 84.4 65.1 150 180 Condition* “150” means the sample was dried at 90° C. for 2 hours, then heated at 150° C. for 2 hours, cooled to room temperature, and tested.

Example 8

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1 except various fabrics and fabric weights were utilized as shown in Table 8 below. Results are shown in Table 8.

TABLE 8 Test Samples and Results Fabric Coated Dry Crush Test weight weight weight Condi- Strength Sample Slurry Fabric (g) (g) (g) tion (N) 500 21 4” ECG 37.9 144.8 106.3 90 302 501 21 4” ECDE 39.4 153 112.1 90 338 502 21 3” ECG  30.0 113.8 83.6 90 219 503 21 3” ECG  33.1 110.3 82.53 90 270 no HT 504 21 Silica 71.0 222.1 167.7 90 575 505 21 E-glass 67.8 267 195.3 90 1628 weave

Example 9

Additional test samples were prepared using the procedures of Example 1 except colloidal oxides or sodium silicates were not utilized. Results are shown in Table 9.

TABLE 9 Test Samples and Results Coated Dry Test weight weight Crush Sample Slurry (g) (g) Condition strength N 600 47 57.8 42.7 90 34 601 48 85.3 65.4 90 52 602 48 79.1 61.1 500  154 603 48 78.6 60.7 500 wet 110 604 61 65.3 38.2 90 77 605 61 60.1 37.6 500  195 606 61 62.5 38 500 wet 170

Samples 604, 605, and 606 utilize in situ formations of silicate via dissolution of clay by sodium hydroxide to form silicates.

Additional Embodiments System Component Embodiments

1. These embodiments are directed to a component of a system, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b). The elevated temperature can be any temperature such as, for example, at least about 200° C., 210° C., 220° C., 230° C., 240° C., 250° C., 260° C., 270° C., 280° C., 290° C., or 300° C. The elevated temperature may be as high as up to and including about 1050° C., 1100° C., 1150° C., 1200° C., 1250° C., 1300° C., 1350° C., 1400° C., 1450° C., 1500° C., 1550° C., or 1600° C. The component comprises a system component structure and a thermal insulating sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap). The thermal insulating structure comprises:

at least one mixture (e.g., an aqueous mixture) comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water and/or other suitable solvent(s);

a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a sleeve (e.g., a cylinder or tube), wrap (e.g., a sheet or strip), other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap), or any combination of such structures having at least one or two open ends, the fabric being impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap),

wherein the pliable binder sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) is positioned around, or almost completely (i.e., more than 180°, 190°, 200°, 210°, 220°, 230°, 240°, 250°, 260°, 270°, 280°, 290°, or 300° and less than 360°) around at least a portion of the system component structure. The filler particles allow for a very high solids content of the binder/filler mixture to remain in the fabric after the water and/or other solvent(s) evaporate or are otherwise removed.

Examples of such a system that exhibits or produces such an elevated temperature include an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine, as well as industrial applications such as insulating steam lines or other high temperature lines. Examples of such systems susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures (e.g., such as caused by a fire or other high temperature environments) include commercial or industrial systems, like those found in buildings, and residential systems, like those found in homes. Such systems may include, e.g., fittings, fuel lines and pipes, electric lines, hydraulic lines, pneumatic lines, air conditioning ducts, food (liquid or solid) transporting conduits (e.g., pipes), etc. that can be found in buildings or outdoor environments and that need to be protected from excessive heat such as, for example, from a fire. Other systems may include exhaust systems for commercial or residential kitchens (e.g., like those connected to a hood over a stove top), as well as steam lines in commercial, industrial and marine applications. For an exhaust system, the component structure can be an exhaust system structure (e.g., an exhaust pipe, pollution control device, muffler, expansion chamber, resonator etc.) having an interior through which exhaust gases flow, and the thermal insulating sleeve is intended to thermally insulate so as to keep heat within at least a portion, most or all of the exhaust system structure. For an electrical system, the component structure could be, for example, an electrical conduit, pipe or circuit box through which electrical wires are run, and the thermal insulating sleeve is intended to thermally insulate so as to keep heat out of at least a portion, most or all of the electrical system component structure.

The remaining embodiments are described using a sleeve like structure. It is understood, however, that each of these embodiments may also apply to the use of a wrap and/or other structures (i.e., structures that are not a sleeve or a wrap).

2. The component according to embodiment 1, wherein the system component structure is an exhaust system component structure in the form of a section or portion of exhaust pipe, a pollution control device (e.g., a section or portion of a diesel particulate filter or trap, a catalytic converter, etc.), a muffler, an expansion chamber or a resonator. 3. The component according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the system component structure comprises a pipe or housing. When the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat into the surrounding environment, the component structure will likely be made of a suitable metal material (e.g., an elemental metal or metal alloy). When the system needs to be protected from excessive heat, the component structure may be made of a suitable metal or polymeric material. 4. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the pliable binder sleeve is positioned around the system component structure. 5. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the mixture is a slurry comprising water, the inorganic binder and the inorganic filler particles. 6. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the inorganic binder comprises inorganic binder particles having a maximum size of about 200 nm. 7. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the inorganic binder comprises a mixture of water and inorganic binder particles. 8. The component according to embodiment 7, wherein the inorganic binder is a solution of inorganic colloidal particles. 9. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the inorganic binder comprises colloidal silica particles, alumina particles or a combination thereof. 10. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the inorganic binder comprises inorganic binder particles that are dissolved in the water. 11. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the inorganic binder comprises dissolved sodium silicate, potassium silicate, lithium silicate, or a combination thereof. 12. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the inorganic filler particles comprise any particulate, when mixed with the inorganic binder in the presence of water, that causes a substantial portion of the inorganic binder to be retained in the fabric without forming a gel or otherwise coagulating such that the pliable binder sleeve becomes a solid mass, before the pliable binder sleeve can be positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of an exhaust system component structure). 13. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the inorganic binder comprises colloidal particles and the inorganic filler particles comprise any particulate that retains a substantial portion of the inorganic binder in the fabric while not forming a gel or otherwise coagulating when mixed with the inorganic binder in the presence of water. 14. The component according to embodiment 12 or 13, wherein the inorganic filler particles retain most of the inorganic binder in the fabric. 15. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the inorganic filler particles have a maximum size of up to about 100 microns. It can be desirable for the inorganic filler particles to have a minimum size of about 0.05 microns. 16. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the inorganic filler particles comprise particles of a clay. 17. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the inorganic filler particles comprise particles of a calcined clay, delaminated clay, water washed clay, surface treated clay, or any combination thereof. 18. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the inorganic filler particles comprise particles of a kaolin clay, bentonite clay, montmorillonite clay, or any combination thereof. 19. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the inorganic filler particles comprise particles of elemental metal, metal alloy, precipitated silica, fume silica, ground silica, fumed alumina, alumina powder, talc, calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, titanium dioxide, glass bubbles, silicon carbide, calcium silicate, glass frit, or any combination thereof. It can be desirable for a portion of the inorganic filler particles (e.g., in the range of from about 5% by weight, and in increments of 1%, up to and including 50% or more) to melt, decompose, oxidize, expand (e.g., expandable intumescent materials, foaming agents, etc.) and/or otherwise change so as to create voids that can alter the thermal and/or acoustical properties of the thermal insulating sleeve. Organic filler materials may also be included to facilitate the forming of such voids, e.g., by decomposing when exposed to elevated temperatures.

It may also be desirable to use an expandable filler material in order to at least help secure the thermal insulating sleeve in position around the system component. For example, it can be desirable to dimension the sleeve-shaped fabric of the thermal insulating sleeve so as to be larger than the corresponding dimensions of the system component (i.e., so that a space or gap is formed between the inside surface of the pliable binder sleeve and the outside surface of the system component) in order to facilitate positioning of the pliable binder sleeve over the system component (e.g., by reducing the friction forces between the sleeve and the component). By including a sufficient amount of expandable filler material (e.g., like particles of an expandable intumescent material), as part or all of the inorganic filler particles impregnating the sleeve-shaped fabric, the optional pliable binder mat or both, the space or gap between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component can be filled so that the pliable binder sleeve, and the resulting rigid binder sleeve, fit snuggly against and are secured in position around the system component. It may also be desirable to wrap wire, dispose clamps or position other mechanical fasteners around the pliable binder sleeve so as to further secure the rigid binder sleeve, and therefore the thermal insulating sleeve, in position around the system component.

20. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the inorganic fibers of the fabric are suitable for being woven, knitted or both woven and knitted into the fabric. The fabric may contain one or more strips, stripes, threads and/or stitches of different colored, textured and/or size fiber(s) or yarn visible as a guide to an installer to help achieve proper alignment of the pliable binder sleeve, and thereby the thermal insulating sleeve, as well as for the proper alignment and amount of overlap with each revolution of the pliable binder wrap. The color may be printed, painted, adhered and/or otherwise made part of the fabric. 21. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the inorganic fibers of the fabric comprise glass fibers, heat treated glass fiber, silica fibers, heat treated or pre-shrunk silica fiber, basalt fibers, ceramic polycrystalline fibers, heat treated refractory ceramic fibers, carbon fibers, graphite fibers, or any combination thereof. 22. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, wherein the fabric is impregnated throughout all of its thickness with the mixture so as to form the pliable binder sleeve. 23. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the fabric is a woven fabric, knitted fabric, needle tacked fabric, stitch bonded fabric, or any combination of these types of fabric. 24. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the inorganic fibers of the fabric comprise different types of inorganic fibers. 25. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 24, wherein the fabric is in the form of a sheet or a strip. 26. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the fabric is in the form of a sheet and only one layer of the sheet is needed to cover the portion of the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of an exhaust system component structure) to be thermally insulated. 27. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the fabric is in the form of two or more sleeves, and each sleeve must be positioned at different locations around the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of an exhaust system component structure) in order to cover the portion of the system component structure to be thermally insulated. 28. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 27, further comprising at least one or any combination of one or more thermal insulators comprising inorganic fibers, one or more metallic plates or foils, one or more metallic particles, strips, wires or coils, and one or more layers of a ceramic material, wherein any such thermal insulator, metallic plate or foil, metallic particulate, strip, wire or coil, and ceramic layer used is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component structure (e.g., the exterior surface of an exhaust system component structure). In addition, each of the metallic (i.e., elemental metal, metal alloy, or metal composite) plates or foils, metallic particles, strips, wires or coils, and layers of ceramic material, may be laminated within the thermal insulating sleeve, e.g., between layers of the pliable binder sleeve, between two adjacent pliable binder sleeves that are aligned concentrically with each other, between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component structure, between the pliable binder sleeve and a thermal insulator, or any combination thereof.

Such a metallic plate or foil, and ceramic material layer, may function, for example, as a water proofing, water impervious or water resistant barrier, as a reflective heat shield, to increase the opacity of the thermal insulating sleeve, or any combination of such functions. It may be desirable to make such a metallic plate or foil out of a high temperature resistant metallic material such as, for example, aluminum alloys suitable for applications exposed to temperatures less than about 600° C., or nickel alloys like Inconel and stainless steel for applications exposed to temperatures greater than about 600° C. A thermal insulating sleeve coated (e.g., dipped, sprayed, brushed, etc.) with a ceramic material layer comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a sodium silicate binder can function as a water proofing, water impervious or water resistant outer layer of the thermal insulating sleeve, especially if the thermal insulating sleeve is made with inorganic colloidal particles (e.g., colloidal silica) and clay filler particles. The ceramic material layer may also be formed by a tile, or any other such ceramic structure.

It can be desirable to use multiple layers of thermal insulating sleeves, wraps and/or other structures (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) where different pliable binder structures are used in a concentric fashion. In one embodiment, the pliable binder structure can comprise alternating structures or layers of (a) colloidal silica and clay impregnated fabric and (b) sodium silicate and clay impregnated fabric.

Such metallic particles, strips, wires or coils may function as a corrosion control agent (e.g., as a sacrificial anode) and can comprise any suitably reactive metallic material (e.g., elemental or alloyed aluminum and/or zinc).

29. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the at least one thermal insulator is dimensioned so as to insulate at least a portion of an exterior surface of the system component structure. 30. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the at least one thermal insulator is dimensioned so as to insulate all of an exterior surface of the system component structure. 31. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the at least one thermal insulator is a plurality of separate thermal insulators that are between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component structure. 32. The component according to embodiment 31, wherein the thermal insulators are spaced apart and separated from one another. 33. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein each thermal insulator comprises multiple layers of inorganic fibers. 34. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 33, wherein each thermal insulator is in the form of a nonwoven fibrous web, mat, scrim or strip. 35. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 34, wherein each thermal insulator comprises glass fibers, heat treated glass fiber, silica fibers, heat treated or pre-shrunk silica fiber, basalt fibers, refractory ceramic fibers, heat treated refractory ceramic fibers, polycrystalline fibers, high temperature biosoluble inorganic fibers, carbon fibers, graphite fibers, aerogel insulation, or any combination thereof. It can be desirable for the thermal insulator to also contain one or more types of filler materials such as, for example, partially or fully expanded intumescent materials and/or unexpanded intumescent materials. 36. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 35, wherein the pliable binder sleeve is positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed completely around all of the system component structure. 37. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 36, wherein at least 2 layers of the pliable binder sleeve are positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of the exhaust system structure). 38. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 37, wherein the thermal insulating sleeve is positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed so that at least a portion of the pliable binder sleeve and the thermal insulator directly contacts an exterior surface of the system component structure. 39. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 38, wherein the pliable binder sleeve comprises two or more pieces. 40. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 39, wherein the pliable binder sleeve is in a dried state and transformed into a rigid binder sleeve. 41. The component according to embodiment 40, wherein the rigid binder sleeve exhibits a minimum crush strength of at least about 40 N (or at least 20 N) per linear inch, according to the Crush Strength Test.

It is desired that the rigid binder sleeve be at most crushable, while the overall integrity of the rigid binder sleeve is preserved. As used herein, the overall integrity of the rigid binder sleeve is considered to be preserved as long as the underlying thermal insulator (when present), or the underlying exterior surface of the system component structure (i.e., the underlying surface not covered by a thermal insulator) would not be substantially exposed such that the rigid binder sleeve could no longer perform its intended purpose (e.g., protecting the underlying structure, providing the desired degree of insulation, etc.). The purpose of the rigid binder sleeve can include at least one or any combination of providing a degree of thermal insulation, as well as protecting the thermal insulator, the system component structure, or both from being damaged (e.g., by any one or any combination of road debris impacts, wind, vibrational forces, inclement weather, etc.). Thus, it can be acceptable for the rigid binder sleeve to be in some degree of a crushed state. It is desirable, however, for the rigid binder sleeve not to shatter into pieces that fall off of the system component structure and are large enough to prevent the rigid binder sleeve from performing its intended purpose.

42. The component according to embodiment 41, wherein at the minimum crush strength, there is not enough breakage of the inorganic fibers to cause enough of the rigid binder sleeve to break off so as to expose the underlying thermal insulator. 43. The component according to any one of embodiments 40 to 42, wherein the system component structure is an exhaust system component structure, and the thermal insulating sleeve does not delaminate for at least 1 year or 12,000 miles, 3 years or 36,000 miles, 5 years or 60,000 miles, or 10 years or 100,000 miles of normal operation of the component in an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. 44. The component according to any one of embodiments 40 to 43, wherein the pliable binder sleeve comprises in the range of from about 1%, and in increments of 1%, up to and including about 40% inorganic binder particles, from about 5%, and in increments of 1%, up to and including about 75% inorganic filler particles, and from about 20%, and in increments of 1%, up to and including about 65% of the inorganic fibers of the fabric, with each percentage being on a dry weight basis. It can be desirable for the pliable binder sleeve to comprise in the range of from about 14% to about 67% inorganic filler particles, on a dry weight basis. In addition or alternatively, it can be desirable for the pliable binder sleeve to comprise in the range of from about 19% to about 55% of the inorganic fibers of the fabric, on a dry weight basis. The pliable binder sleeve can optionally comprise high temperature pigments, which may also function as filler particles, in the range of from about 0%, and in increments of 1%, up to and including 67% on a dry weight basis. 45. The component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 44, wherein the system component structure has an exterior surface and a structural feature (e.g., a port, bracket, etc.) extending off or out from the exterior surface, and the thermal insulating sleeve further comprises a fibrous sheet- or mat-like structure having an opening (e.g., a slit or hole) formed therethrough and being impregnated with a mixture so as to form a pliable binder mat, with the mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water and/or other suitable solvent(s). The structural feature of the system component structure is disposed through the opening of the pliable binder mat. The fibrous sheet- or mat-like structure can be a piece of fabric like that used to make a pliable binder sleeve or a piece of a nonwoven fibrous web, mat, scrim or strip like that used to make a thermal insulator. 46. The component according to embodiment 45, wherein at least a portion of the pliable binder mat is exposed and not covered by the pliable binder sleeve. Almost all (i.e., at least about 75%), most (i.e., more than about 50%) or at least a portion of the pliable binder mat is disposed between the exterior surface of the system component structure and the pliable binder sleeve. It is desirable for at least enough of the pliable binder mat to be so disposed that it will be secure in place by the pliable binder sleeve.

It can be desirable for the pliable binder sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap), with or without the pliable binder mat, to be formed into a rigid binder structure having a complex three-dimensional shape. This complex three-dimensional shaped rigid binder structure can be attached to a similar shaped portion of a system component. Such a complex three-dimensional shaped rigid binder structure can be formed, for example, by (a) applying the pliable binder sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) so as to conform to all or at least part of a complex three-dimensional shape of a male- or female-shaped form, die or system component, (b) drying, curing and/or otherwise hardening the pliable blinder structure so that the resulting shaped rigid binder structure comprises a complex three-dimensional shape that corresponds to a matching part of the form, die or system component, and (c) separating the shaped rigid binder structure from the form, die, or system component by any means, including, for example, by collapsing or otherwise making the form, die or system component smaller to facilitate its removal from the shaped rigid binder structure, or by cutting or otherwise separating the shaped rigid binder structure into two or more sections or pieces to facilitate its removal from the form, die or system component, or a combination of both. In one embodiment, the shaped rigid binder sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) can be separated longitudinally into two pieces, with each piece having a clam shell-like shape.

Thermal Insulating Sleeve Embodiments

47. A thermal insulating sleeve as used in the component (e.g., the component of an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 46. 48. A thermal insulating sleeve for thermally insulating at least a portion of an exterior of a system component structure (e.g., an exhaust system component structure), with the thermal insulating sleeve comprising:

a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water and/or other suitable solvent(s); and

a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a sleeve (e.g., a cylinder or tube) having at least one or two open ends, the fabric being impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder sleeve,

wherein the pliable binder sleeve is dimensioned to be positioned around at least a portion of the system component structure.

49. The thermal insulating sleeve according to embodiment 48, further comprising:

at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers,

wherein the at least one thermal insulator is disposed such that, when the thermal insulating sleeve is applied, the at least one thermal insulator is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve and a system component structure (e.g., the exterior of an exhaust system component structure).

Kit Embodiment

50. A kit comprising the thermal insulating sleeve according to embodiment 48 or 49, wherein the pliable binder sleeve is wound into the form of a roll or folded and disposed into a moisture barrier container.

Method of Making Thermal Insulating Sleeve Embodiments

51. A method of making a thermal insulating sleeve as used in the component of a system (e.g., an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine), the method comprising:

forming a mixture comprising mixing water and/or other suitable solvent(s), inorganic binder particles and inorganic filler particles;

providing a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a sleeve (e.g., a cylinder or tube) having at least one or two open ends that can be positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around at least a portion of a system component structure (e.g., an exhaust system component structure); and

impregnating the fabric with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder sleeve,

wherein the fabric can be impregnated with the mixture before or after being positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around the system component structure.

52. The method according to embodiment 51, further comprising:

disposing at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers such that, when the pliable binder sleeve is positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around at least a portion of a system component structure, the at least one thermal insulator is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component structure.

System Embodiment

53. A system (e.g., an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine) comprising a component according to any one of embodiments 1 to 46.

Internal Combustion Engine Embodiment

54. An internal combustion engine in combination with an exhaust system according to embodiment 53.

Method of Thermally Insulating Embodiments

55. A method of thermally insulating a component of a system (e.g., an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine), with the component comprising a system component structure (e.g., an exhaust system component structure having an interior through which exhaust gases flow and an exterior). The method comprises:

providing a thermal insulating sleeve suitable (e.g., dimensioned and/or designed) for thermally insulating at least a portion of the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of the exhaust system component structure), with the thermal insulating sleeve comprising:

a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water and/or other suitable solvent(s), and

a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a sleeve (e.g., a cylinder or tube) having at least one or two open ends, with the fabric being impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder sleeve;

positioning the pliable binder sleeve so as to be disposed around at least a portion of the system component structure; and

drying the pliable binder sleeve so as to be transformed into a rigid binder sleeve positioned (e.g., slipped) over or otherwise disposed around at least the portion of the system component structure.

56. The method according to embodiment 55, wherein the thermal insulating sleeve provided further comprises at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, and the at least one thermal insulator is disposed between the pliable binder sleeve and the system component structure (e.g., the exterior of the exhaust system component structure) during the process of applying the sleeve.

This invention may take on various modifications, alterations and uses without departing from its spirit and scope. For example, the present invention may be useful in repairing a system component structure or in covering and/or protecting a previously repaired portion of a system component structure. In particular, for example, the present inventive sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may be useful in closing a hole or otherwise repairing a pipe or housing such as, e.g., an exhaust pipe or the housing of a pollution control device (e.g., a diesel particulate filter or trap, a catalytic converter, etc.), muffler, expansion chamber, resonator, or other system component structure. The present inventive sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may also be useful in securing, e.g., a plate or foil (e.g., made of metal or ceramic) or other repair structure so as to close over or otherwise repair such a hole or defect in a system component structure (e.g., an exhaust system component structure). The present inventive sleeve, wrap and/or other structure (i.e., a structure that is not a sleeve or a wrap) may also be closed at one end. Accordingly, this invention is not limited to the above-described but is to be controlled by the limitations set forth in any claims supported by this disclosure and any equivalents thereof.

This invention may be suitably practiced in the absence of any element not specifically disclosed herein. It is also understood that the present invention may relate to only the thermal insulating structure itself, and therefore, may be claimed without being combined with a system component. That is, the thermal insulating structure may be of use without a system component, such as those system components described herein.

All patents and patent applications cited above, including those in the Background section, are incorporated by reference into this document in total. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A component of an electrical system, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b), said component comprising an electrical system component structure; and a thermal insulating structure for thermally insulating at least a portion of said electrical system component structure, with said thermal insulating structure comprising: a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a fiber structure, said fabric being impregnated with said mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure, wherein said pliable binder structure is positioned on at least a portion of said electrical system component structure, said pliable binder structure becomes a rigid binder structure in response to being dried, cured or otherwise hardened.
 2. The component according to claim 1, wherein said inorganic filler particles comprise any particulate, when mixed with said inorganic binder in the presence of water, that causes a substantial portion of said inorganic binder to be retained in said fabric without forming a gel or otherwise coagulating such that said pliable binder structure becomes a solid mass before said pliable binder structure can be positioned on said electrical system component structure.
 3. The component according to claim 1, wherein said inorganic binder comprises colloidal particles and said inorganic filler particles comprise any particulate that retains a substantial portion of said inorganic binder in said fabric while not forming a gel or otherwise coagulating when mixed with said inorganic binder in the presence of water.
 4. The component according to claim 1, wherein said inorganic filler particles have a maximum size of up to about 100 microns.
 5. The component according to claim 1, wherein said fiber structure is in the form of a strip-, sheet- or mat-like structure, and only one layer of said fiber structure covers the portion of said electrical system component structure to be thermally insulated.
 6. The component according to claim 1, wherein said fabric is in the form of multiple structures that must be positioned at multiple locations on the electrical system component structure in order to cover the portion of the electrical system component structure to be thermally insulated.
 7. The component according to claim 1, further comprising at least one or both of a thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, and a metallic plate or foil, wherein each of said thermal insulator and said metallic plate or foil is disposed within the thermal insulating structure between layers of said pliable binder structure, between said pliable binder structure and said electrical system component structure, between the pliable binder structure and a thermal insulator, or any combination thereof.
 8. The component according to claim 1, wherein said at least one thermal insulator is a plurality of separate thermal insulators that are between said pliable binder structure and said electrical system component structure.
 9. The component according to claim 1, wherein at least 2 layers of the pliable binder structure are positioned on the electrical system component structure.
 10. The component according to claim 5, wherein said fiber structure is in the form of a mat-like structure.
 11. The component according to claim 1, wherein said rigid binder structure exhibits a minimum crush strength of at least about 40 N, according to the Crush Strength Test, with said rigid binder structure being at most crushed while the overall integrity of said rigid binder structure is preserved.
 12. The component according to claim 1, wherein said thermal insulating structure does not delaminate for at least 1 year or 12,000 miles of normal operation of said component in an electrical system of an engine.
 13. The component according to claim 1, wherein said pliable binder structure comprises in the range of from about 1% to about 35% inorganic binder particles, from about 5% to about 75% inorganic filler particles, and from about 20% to about 65% of the inorganic fibers of said fabric, with each percentage being on a dry weight basis.
 14. A thermal insulating structure for thermally insulating at least a portion of an electrical system component structure, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b), and with said thermal insulating structure comprising: a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a fiber structure, said fabric being impregnated with said mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure, wherein said pliable binder structure is dimensioned to be positioned on at least a portion of the electrical system component structure, and wherein the pliable binder structure is configured to become rigid in response to being dried, cured or otherwise hardened.
 15. The thermal insulating structure according to claim 14, further comprising: at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, wherein said at least one thermal insulator is disposed such that, when said thermal insulating structure is applied, said at least one thermal insulator is disposed between said pliable binder structure and the electrical system component structure.
 16. A kit comprising the thermal insulating structure according to claim 14, wherein said pliable binder structure is disposed into a moisture barrier container.
 17. A method of making a thermal insulating structure as used in the component, of an electrical system for an engine, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b), said method comprising: forming a mixture comprising mixing water, inorganic binder particles and inorganic filler particles; providing a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a strip-, sheet- or mat-like structure that can be positioned on at least a portion of an electrical system component structure; impregnating the fabric with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure, wherein the fabric is impregnated with the mixture before or after being positioned on the electrical system component structure; placing the pliable binder structure on the component; and exposing the pliable binder structure to heat, wherein the fabric mixture is configured to release at least some water in response to exposure to heat such that the pliable binder structure becomes rigid after placement on the electrical system component.
 18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: disposing at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers such that, when the pliable binder structure is positioned on at least a portion of a electrical system component structure, the at least one thermal insulator is disposed between the pliable binder structure and the electrical system component structure.
 19. A method of thermally insulating a component of an electrical system for an engine, where (a) a portion or all of the component exhibits or produces an external elevated temperature and the system needs to be thermally insulated to prevent or reduce the loss or transfer of heat from the component into the surrounding environment, (b) a portion or all of the component or something within the component is susceptible to being damaged by exposure to elevated temperatures, or (c) both (a) and (b), and with the component comprising an electrical system component structure, said method comprising: providing a thermal insulating structure suitable for thermally insulating at least a portion of the electrical system component structure, with the thermal insulating structure comprising: a mixture comprising an inorganic binder, inorganic filler particles, and water; and a fabric comprising inorganic fibers in the form of a strip-, sheet- or mat-like structure, with the fabric being impregnated with the mixture so as to form a pliable binder structure; drying the pliable binder structure, such that it transforms into a rigid binder structure positioned completely on at least the portion of the electrical system component structure; and positioning the pliable binder structure or rigid binder structure so as to be disposed on at least a portion of the electrical system component structure.
 20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the provided thermal insulating structure further comprises at least one thermal insulator comprising inorganic fibers, and the at least one thermal insulator is disposed between the pliable binder structure and the electrical system component structure during said covering. 